GIS Specialist

Are you passionate about mapping, data and technology? Do you enjoy turning complex spatial information into practical solutions that help services and communities?

Havant Borough Council is bringing its GIS function in-house and is looking for a GIS Specialist to join our new geospatial team. This is an exciting opportunity to help establish and develop a modern GIS service that supports decision-making, service delivery and digital transformation across the Council.

What you will be doing

Working alongside the Geospatial Data Manager, you will be at the heart of our new in-house geospatial service, helping colleagues turn location data into insight and better outcomes for residents. You will deliver mapping, spatial data and web mapping services for colleagues, residents and partner organisations; create clear digital maps and spatial reports; maintain GIS datasets and applications; and support users across the Council. As the service develops, you will also help shape how geographic information is used, ensuring it remains accurate, accessible and reliable.

Who we’re looking for

You will bring experience of GIS software and spatial data management, strong attention to detail and a customer-focused approach. Just as importantly, you will be curious, collaborative and keen to explore how geospatial technology can improve services. Whether you are ready for the next step in your GIS career or already have experience in a similar role, you will have the opportunity to broaden your technical skills, contribute ideas and grow with a service that is evolving. You will join a supportive team where your expertise will be valued and where you can make a visible contribution to the future of geographic information services at Havant Borough Council.

You should be able to demonstrate:

• Relevant qualification in GIS, Geography, Geospatial Science, Data Management or a related discipline, or substantial equivalent practical experience.
• Strong experience of using GIS software and web mapping systems, including QGIS or equivalent GIS platforms.
• Ability to produce accurate digital maps, site plans, map extracts, spatial analysis, data queries and other spatial data products.
• Good knowledge of spatial data management, GIS databases, data quality standards, metadata and web-enabled GIS applications.
• Experience of maintaining and updating spatial datasets, ensuring data accuracy, quality and compliance with agreed standards.
• Knowledge of LLPG principles, address data management and the application of BS7666 standards.
• Experience of maintaining web mapping layers, configuring GIS applications and supporting users with technical queries.
• Ability to work independently on operational GIS matters whilst recognising when issues should be escalated.
• Good attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records, technical documentation, datasets and audit trails.
• Ability to analyse spatial information, identify issues and communicate technical information clearly to a range of audiences.
• Good customer service, communication, organisational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Experience of data cleansing, spatial analysis, map publishing, service improvement projects or digital transformation activity.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to:
  • help shape a newly in-housed GIS service from the outset and
  • build your experience through a diverse range of mapping, spatial data and digital transformation projects.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Chance to make a visible impact across Council services and local communities.
• Support for your continuous professional development and learning.
• Generous leave allowance
• Free parking
• Flexible working/hybrid working to support your work-life balance

At Havant Borough Council, our values shape how we work, make decisions and serve our communities. We're looking for people who demonstrate our values every day:

• Ambitious: we want to be the best for our Borough, our communities, and partners; We are performance driven.
• Accountable: we take personal responsibility for our decisions; we are one team.
• Agile: we are responsive to change; we evolve our ways of working.
• H’avant Garde: we are solutions-focused, and we learn continuously.

The role requires travel for business purposes. You will therefore need a full driving licence and access to a vehicle, or the ability to make suitable alternative travel arrangements.

Internal secondment opportunities must be discussed with current line managers. Please follow the guidance within the Secondment Policy .

This role is advertised on a full-time basis. However, we do everything we can to accommodate flexible working and would consider job-share or part-time arrangements. If you would like to explore these options, please tell us in your application, or at any stage of the recruitment process, how many hours you are seeking.

Applications close at midnight on 8 November 2026 , and interviews will be held the week commencing 23 November 2026 or week commencing 30 November 2026 .

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Due to the current employment climate, we are receiving a high number of applicants for each post and may not acknowledge receipt. You will be notified shortly after the closing date if you are shortlisted.

The council is an inclusive employer and appoints on merit. We are a Disability Confident Employer and have a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for Veterans.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff members to share this commitment.

Havant Borough Council is a Category 1 Responder under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004. All employees of the Authority will be expected to support any necessary actions required during an emergency response.

We recognise that candidates may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support the preparation of applications. This may include use as an accessibility aid or reasonable adjustment. AI-generated content should accurately reflect your own skills, experience, qualifications and achievements. During the recruitment process, you will be asked to discuss and provide evidence of the information included in your application. Providing misleading or inaccurate information may result in your application being withdrawn.

Local government reorganisation (LGR)

On 7 September 2026, the Government announced that it had withdrawn its previous decision on local government reorganisation (LGR) for Hampshire and the wider Solent area.

More information about Local Government Reorganisation can be found on our website: